Wings and Rings

The franchise industry is undoubtedly facing a situation unlike anything it has ever seen before. Coronavirus has caused brands across multiple industries to temporarily close their doors — or at the very least, rethink their operations — putting franchisors in a position where they need to act fast in order to provide support.&nbsp;Because the current economic climate is unprecedented and the latest news is changing by the minute, there’s no quick fix or “right answer” when it comes to how franchisors can help their local owners successfully navigate the effects of this global pandemic and come out on the other side strong. That’s why 1851 Franchise publisher <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/powills/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=6-ways-franchisors-are-assisting-their-franchisees-during-the-covid-19-crisis-2712635" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Nick Powills</a> asked franchisors to weigh in on what they’re thinking about in terms of assistance to franchisees. Here’s what six executives from six different brands had to say.Kathie O’Connor, Director of Franchise Support at <a href="https://emergingvision.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=6-ways-franchisors-are-assisting-their-franchisees-during-the-covid-19-crisis-2712635" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Emerging Vision Inc.</a>: “So far, our assistance has been primarily moral support, as we are all still in a state of shock and 40% of our locations are in the Bay Area. We're making sure to give the most current and relevant information to our franchise group from an operational standpoint and [are] just letting them know we're here and we are available. We have reduced the royalties and advertising by 50% starting 3/16.”Danessa Itaya, President of <a href="https://propertymanagementincfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=6-ways-franchisors-are-assisting-their-franchisees-during-the-covid-19-crisis-2712635" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Property Management Inc.</a>: “We are not enforcing [a] minimum marketing requirement, and we are providing an $100 credit to each franchise. When we announced this last week on a Zoom town hall, we had some of our top franchisees donate it back to give to some of the younger franchisees who might need it more. We have 260 franchisees. More than anything, the $100 was a token to show that we are in this with them as well. We’re taking this one month at a time.”Michele Kerling-Fagundes, President of <a href="https://www.mrpickles.com/franchising/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=6-ways-franchisors-are-assisting-their-franchisees-during-the-covid-19-crisis-2712635" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Mr. Pickles Sandwich Shop</a>: “[We] reduced royalties in half, suspended marketing fees, [are] posting current info about SBA lending [and] LSM. [We’re not doing] inspections, just [offering] support. [Regarding] marketing, [we’re doing] iHeartRadio audio, email blasts [and] social media—[we’re] reminding our customers we are open and offer takeout, curbside, online ordering [and] third-party delivery. [We] formed a focus group with several multi-unit owners for feedback and [to] brainstorm marketing [initiatives]. [We’re also] offering a combo deal. [These are] tough times but [I] feel confident in May it will start recovering based on what we hear about China and Hong Kong. [We’re also] keeping temporary signage, SBA info [and] news posts in one area on our Franchise Portal for quick reference.”Tom Parks, CEO of <a href="https://premierfranchisesolutions.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=6-ways-franchisors-are-assisting-their-franchisees-during-the-covid-19-crisis-2712635" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Premier Franchise Solutions</a>: “We are making a point to not only reach out to franchisor clients but also to anyone we have awarded a franchise to in those systems. Typically franchise development moves from one deal to the next. We want anyone we have shared time with, who trusted us during their discovery process, to know we haven't forgotten about them and are here for them, even if that's only as a listening ear.”Dimitria O’Rourke, Director of Franchise Support &amp; Training at <a href="https://brokenyolkfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=6-ways-franchisors-are-assisting-their-franchisees-during-the-covid-19-crisis-2712635" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Broken Yolk Cafe</a>: “I’m a franchisor of 33 franchises and 1 corporate location. We waived all royalties for March and will decide about April as we see what unfolds. We have been assisting with marketing efforts to get the word out [and] we are still open for takeout and delivery (at most locations). Some have just opted to close; we gave them the choice. [We’re] very much hoping for this to not go beyond [the] end of April so we can hire back our team in May.”Philip Schram, Chairman of the 80-unit brand <a href="https://ownabuffalo.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=6-ways-franchisors-are-assisting-their-franchisees-during-the-covid-19-crisis-2712635" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings</a>: “The entire corporate office has been rerouted to support franchisees. We offer concrete solutions on a silver tray. We test them first in our corporate stores, then roll them out to the network. Also, [we’re releasing] a lot of communication through a central SharePoint hub.”

6 Ways Franchisors Are Assisting Their Franchisees During the COVID-19 Crisis

1851 Franchise

Executives from six different franchise brands offer insight into the steps they’re taking to help franchisees persevere through this time of uncertainty.

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Wings and Rings Launches Operating Partner Program to Reward Top Performers and Build Future Franchise Owners

Wings and Rings Serves Up Game Day Deals for the 2026 NCAA Tournament

Wings and Rings Brings Back Sam Adams Beer Cheese for Big Game Flavor and a Free Wings Giveaway

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CINCINNATI&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="https://ownwingsandrings.com/">Wings and Rings</a>, the 85-unit, club-level sports restaurant and bar franchise, has launched its Operating Partner Program (OPP), a strategic initiative designed to reward top-performing general managers with a share of the bottom line while creating a clear pathway toward future franchise ownership.Built to mirror the benefits of ownership without requiring significant upfront capital, the program gives high-performing operators a “sweat equity equivalent,” allowing them to participate directly in the financial success of their restaurants while continuing to grow within the system.“It’s really an opportunity for our best managers to earn a share of the bottom line,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-bafundo-44908a3/">Bob Bafundo</a>, Chief Operating Officer. “In many ways, it mimics the franchisee ownership model. The better the restaurant performs, the more they benefit. It creates true alignment.”The Operating Partner Program is grounded in one of Wings and Rings’ core values: “stand together as family.”With many general managers having more than a decade of tenure, the program reflects a long-standing commitment to recognizing and investing in the people who have helped build the business.“This is essentially a way to reward our best operators with a bigger, better opportunity,” Bafundo said. “It’s about recognizing the people who have been driving this brand forward for years and giving them a chance to grow with us in a more meaningful way.”Beyond individual rewards, the program is designed to strengthen the system as a whole by retaining top talent and creating stability at the general manager level, a key driver of restaurant performance.“Research in this industry consistently shows that stability at the general manager level leads to stability among hourly employees,” Bafundo said. “And that stability ultimately drives guest satisfaction, sales and profitability.”Participants are expected to operate with an owner’s mindset, taking accountability for performance, building strong teams and serving as the face of the brand in their local communities. The program also acts as a stepping stone toward future franchise ownership, giving operators the experience and financial upside to grow within the system.To qualify, candidates must demonstrate at least two years of strong performance as a general manager, consistent operational excellence, a desire to grow with the brand and the ability to make an upfront investment, which varies by restaurant.The Operating Partner Program is currently rolling out internally, with many candidates expected to meet eligibility requirements by the end of the year.As Wings and Rings continues to expand, the OPP reinforces the brand’s commitment to developing talent from within, strengthening its culture and aligning incentives across the system.“This is about investing in our people for the long term,” Bafundo said. “When our operators win, our teams win, and ultimately, our guests do too.”ABOUT WINGS AND RINGSEstablished in 1984 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Wings and Rings is THE club-level sports restaurant and bar with Craveworthy Wings and Rings, My Place Service and a Club-Level Ambiance, all to encourage social connections. Whether it’s enjoying a bit of banter, catching up over the game, finding new craft beer favorites, or celebrating a big win, Wings and Rings is the place where everyone can kick back, enjoy life, and champion everyday moments. With 85 units across the globe, Wings and Rings is changing the sports restaurant category, making elevated food and beverage experiences accessible to all fans. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.WingsandRings.com</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ownwingsandrings.com">www.OwnWingsandRings.com</a>.

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The Cincinnati-based sports restaurant franchise created the program to give strong operators a larger share in store performance and a path to more ownership-style responsibility.

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CINCINNATI, Ohio —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/">Wings and Rings</a>, the 85-unit, club-level sports restaurant and bar franchise, is turning up the heat for college basketball fans during the 2026 NCAA tournament with a limited-time game day deal made for sharing. Kicking off with the first round on March 19 and running throughout the championship on April 6, guests can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/baskets">score a free basket</a> of Saratoga chips, fries or wedges with the purchase of 20 wings on NCAA tournament game days with code BASKETS.The tournament deals don’t stop there. Wings and Rings loyalty members will receive a new freebie loaded into their accounts during every round of the tournament, giving fans even more reasons to stay in the game. Guests can download the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/baskets">Wings and Rings app</a> to start earning rewards and unlock exclusive offers.Throughout the tournament, guests can enjoy Wings and Rings’ signature wings paired with bold sauces and flavors, making it easy to build a shareable spread for friends and family. Plus, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/deals">Daily Value</a> lineup keeps the deals rolling all week long:&nbsp;<ul><li>Monday &amp; Friday: Kids Eat Free. Start the week with homework after school and end it cheering on the game.</li><li>Tuesday: 40% off wings (traditional or boneless), juicy and packed with bold flavor.</li><li>Wednesday: $8.49 three-piece tender baskets. Hand-breaded, generous servings at unbeatable value.</li><li>Weekday Lunch (11 a.m.–2 p.m.): Generous portions of wings, sandwiches, burgers, and salads that won’t break the bank.</li><li>Happy Hour (Mon–Fri, 3–6 p.m.): Afternoon deals on drinks and bites, ideal for unwinding with friends before tip-off.</li></ul>During the tournament, guests can indulge in Wings and Rings’ Crafted Classics limited-time menu, featuring the return of Sam Adams Beer Cheese across comfort-forward dishes made for game watching. Favorites include Sam’s Beer Cheese Loaded Fries or Chips, the Beer Cheese Chicken Sandwich, and Beer Cheese Jumbo Tenders, perfect for sharing.With wall-to-wall games, shareable eats, and can’t-miss tournament deals, Wings and Rings is the ultimate spot for fans to gather and celebrate every championship moment.To find a Wings and Rings near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com">https://www.wingsandrings.com</a>.&nbsp;ABOUT WINGS AND RINGS&nbsp;Established in 1984 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Wings and Rings is THE club-level sports restaurant and bar with Craveworthy Wings and Rings, My Place Service and a Club-Level Ambiance, all to encourage social connections. Whether it’s enjoying a bit of banter, catching up over the game, finding new craft beer favorites or celebrating a big win, Wings and Rings is the place where everyone can kick back, enjoy life and champion everyday moments. With 85 units across the globe, Wings and Rings is changing the sports restaurant category, making elevated food and beverage experiences accessible to all fans. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.WingsandRings.com</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ownwingsandrings.com">www.OwnWingsandRings.com</a>.&nbsp;

Score big with a free basket of fries, chips, or wedges when you grab 20 wings on NCAA tournament game days, giving your crew extra fuel for every buzzer-beater.

wings-and-rings-serves-up-game-day-deals-for-the-2026-ncaa-tournament

CINCINNATI, Ohio —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/">Wings and Rings</a>, the 85-unit, club-level sports restaurant and bar franchise, is shaking up the week with a fresh lineup of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wingsandrings.com/deals">Daily Value offers</a> starting March 2. Leaning further into its reputation for crave-worthy wings and tenders, the brand is doubling down on what matters most: big flavor, big portions and big-time value, whether you’re feeding the family or grabbing your favorites with friends.&nbsp;Here’s what guests can expect from the Wings and Rings’ Daily Value lineup:<ul><li>Monday and Friday: Kids Eat Free kicks off and wraps up the week. Start Monday with homework after school and end Friday toasting the weekend with the game on at your local Wings and Rings.</li><li>Tuesday: 40% off wings! Traditional or boneless, every wing is juicy, tender and loaded with bold, crave-worthy flavor.</li><li>Wednesday: $8.49 three-piece tender baskets. Midweek cravings, meet unbeatable value. Wings and Rings’ three-piece tender baskets feature big, hand-breaded tenders, and offer better prices and bigger servings than most fast-food options.</li><li>Weekday Lunch (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.): Lunch doesn’t have to be small. Enjoy full-size lunch options, from wings, to sandwiches, burgers or salads, all at wallet-friendly prices.</li><li>Happy Hour (Monday–Friday, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.): Your favorite time of day just got better. Unwind with great drinks, food and can’t-miss deals all afternoon.&nbsp;</li></ul>These Daily Value offers are designed to give fans and families more of what they love: bold flavor, hearty portions and meals that satisfy.“We built our Daily Value lineup to give big value to the families and fans that make us who we are,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dansweatt/">Dan Sweatt</a>, Senior Marketing Manager. “We’re confident we have the best wings and tenders you can find. If you haven’t tried us before, now there’s a great reason to give us a shot. If you’re already a fan, this is our way of saying thank you.”Starting March 2, weekdays are about to get a whole lot tastier. To see the full menu or find your local Wings and Rings, visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.wingsandrings.com</a>.About Wings and RingsEstablished in 1984 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Wings and Rings is THE club-level sports restaurant and bar with Craveworthy Wings and Rings, My Place Service and a Club-Level Ambiance, all to encourage social connections. Whether it’s enjoying a bit of banter, catching up over the game, finding new craft beer favorites, or celebrating a big win, Wings and Rings is the place where everyone can kick back, enjoy life and champion everyday moments. With 85 units across the globe, Wings and Rings is changing the sports restaurant category, making elevated food and beverage experiences accessible to all fans. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wingsandrings.com">www.WingsandRings.com</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ownwingsandrings.com">www.OwnWingsandRings.com</a>.

Starting March 2, the sports restaurant franchise will begin offering huge wing savings, Kids Eat Free nights and daily deals that make skipping the kitchen easy.

Wings and Rings Launches All-New Daily Value Lineup Packed with Big Flavors and Big Savings

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wings-and-rings-brings-back-sam-adams-beer-cheese-for-big-game-flavor-and-a-free-wings-giveaway

6 Ways Franchisors Are Assisting Their Franchisees During the COVID-19 Crisis

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